Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones: What's the Difference?
Here's how they form, why they can be so deadly, and how to best prepare for them
Tropical cyclones are rapidly rotating storm systems with a low-pressure center, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation, strong winds, and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms. The terms hurricane, typhoon, and cyclone all refer to tropical cyclones, but they are used in different parts of the world.
Hurricanes
Hurricanes form over the North Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the eastern Pacific Ocean. They are typically defined as having maximum sustained winds of at least 74 miles per hour (119 kilometers per hour).
Typhoons
Typhoons form over the western Pacific Ocean. They are typically defined as having maximum sustained winds of at least 74 miles per hour (119 kilometers per hour).
Cyclones
Cyclones form over the South Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean. They are typically defined as having maximum sustained winds of at least 63 miles per hour (101 kilometers per hour).
How Do Tropical Cyclones Form?
Tropical cyclones form over warm ocean waters, typically between 80 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit (27 and 30 degrees Celsius). The warm water provides the energy that drives the storm. When the air near the ocean surface is warm and moist, it rises into the atmosphere. As the air rises, it cools and condenses, releasing heat energy that further powers the storm.
The rising air creates a low-pressure area at the surface of the ocean. This low-pressure area draws in more warm, moist air from the surrounding ocean, which helps to further intensify the storm.
Why Can Tropical Cyclones Be So Deadly?
Tropical cyclones can be deadly because they can cause high winds, storm surge, flooding, and tornadoes. High winds can knock down trees and power lines, and they can also cause structural damage to buildings.
Storm surge is a wall of water that can be as high as 20 feet (6 meters). Storm surge can flood coastal areas, causing widespread damage and loss of life.
Flooding can also occur when heavy rains from tropical cyclones cause rivers and streams to overflow their banks. Flooding can damage homes and businesses, and it can also make it difficult for people to get around.
How to Best Prepare for Tropical Cyclones
There are a number of things you can do to prepare for tropical cyclones. These include:
- Creating an emergency plan.
- Gathering emergency supplies.
- Knowing your evacuation routes.
- Staying informed about the weather forecast.
If a tropical cyclone is approaching, it is important to listen to the advice of local officials. You may need to evacuate your home if you are in a low-lying area or if your home is not structurally sound.
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